Breast milk alone meets all the nutritional needs of babies in the first 6 months. However, less than half of newborn babies worldwide start life with breast milk. Afterwards, about 44 percent of babies can be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives. However, while breastfeeding reduces the risk of developing autism and attention deficit, developmental problems are less common in breastfed babies.
Newborn Specialist Dr. from Ankara Etlik City Hospital Maternity Hospital. Meltem Aksu explained the importance of breast milk to Selim Ercan from Elips Haber on the occasion of the 'World Breastfeeding Week'. Stating that the World Health Organization recommends that babies be fed only with breast milk for 6 months after they are born, and that breast milk should be continued until the age of two, Dr. Aksu said that as a result of the studies carried out to promote breast milk, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months in Turkey increased to 41% and the average breastfeeding period to 17 months.
Stating that every mother's milk is suitable for her baby and in sufficient quantity, Dr. Aksu said, “Breast milk is always ready, clean and at the appropriate temperature. It is easy to digest, contains protein in a suitable density for the digestive system and kidneys. It strengthens the baby's immune system. It strengthens the emotional bond between mother and baby.
Emphasizing that breast milk is protective against diseases, Aksu continued as follows: “Breast milk protects babies against infections such as otitis media, respiratory tract infections, conjunctivitis, infectious diarrhea. It has been observed that breast milk reduces the development of type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, obesity, coronary artery disease and hypertension in advanced ages. Babies fed with breast milk have better mental, physical and brain development. Babies' intelligence scores increase, developmental problems are less common. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of developing autism and attention deficit.
